What causes the skin on your chest to hurt when touched. How is costochondritis diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for costochondritis. How long does costochondritis typically last. Can costochondritis be prevented.

What is Costochondritis and How Does it Affect the Body?

Costochondritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone, known as the costochondral joint. This condition can cause significant discomfort and pain in the chest area, often mimicking more serious cardiac issues. Understanding costochondritis is crucial for those experiencing unexplained chest pain.

Key facts about costochondritis:

• It affects both children and adults, but is more common in individuals over 40
• Women and people of Hispanic origin are more susceptible
• Approximately 30% of people complaining of chest pain have costochondritis
• The condition is generally harmless but can cause significant discomfort

How does costochondritis manifest in the body?

Costochondritis typically presents as a sharp, achy, or pressure-like pain in the chest area. The pain is often localized to the front left side of the breastbone but can spread to other areas of the chest, arms, and shoulders. The affected area is tender to touch and pain may intensify with movement, deep breathing, or sneezing.

Identifying the Causes and Risk Factors of Costochondritis

While the exact cause of costochondritis remains unknown, several factors have been associated with its onset. Understanding these potential triggers can help in prevention and management of the condition.

Common factors linked to costochondritis include:

• Physical strain or overexertion during exercise
• Chest injuries
• Persistent coughing
• Respiratory infections
• Intravenous drug use

Are certain individuals more prone to developing costochondritis? Research suggests that people with underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis may be at a higher risk. Additionally, those who engage in activities that put repetitive stress on the chest wall might be more susceptible.

Recognizing the Symptoms: When to Suspect Costochondritis

Identifying the symptoms of costochondritis is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. While chest pain is the primary symptom, it’s important to distinguish it from other potentially serious conditions.

What are the hallmark symptoms of costochondritis?

The main symptoms of costochondritis include:

1. Sharp or aching pain in the chest, typically on the left side
2. Tenderness when pressing on the affected area
3. Pain that worsens with movement, deep breathing, or coughing
4. Discomfort that may spread to the back, abdomen, or arm
5. Pain exacerbated by certain activities like wearing a seatbelt or lying down

Is the pain from costochondritis constant? The intensity of pain can vary from person to person. Some may experience constant discomfort, while others might feel pain only during certain activities or movements.

Diagnostic Approaches for Costochondritis: What to Expect

Diagnosing costochondritis involves a combination of physical examination and, in some cases, additional tests to rule out other conditions. Understanding the diagnostic process can help patients prepare for their medical consultation.

How do doctors diagnose costochondritis?

The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Physical examination: The doctor will press on the chest to identify areas of tenderness
2. Medical history review: Discussion of symptoms, recent activities, and medical background
3. Range of motion assessment: Evaluating how pain affects movement
4. Breathing examination: Listening to lung sounds and observing breathing patterns

For patients over 35 or those with risk factors for heart disease, additional tests may be necessary. These can include chest X-rays, electrocardiograms (EKG), and blood tests to rule out more serious conditions like heart attacks or blood clots.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Managing Costochondritis

While costochondritis often resolves on its own, various treatment options can help manage pain and discomfort. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and individual patient factors.

What are the primary treatment options for costochondritis?

Treatment strategies for costochondritis include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin can help reduce inflammation and pain
• Heat therapy: Applying hot compresses or heating pads to the affected area
• Activity modification: Avoiding movements or activities that exacerbate pain
• Corticosteroid injections: For severe cases, doctors may administer localized steroid injections
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): A non-invasive therapy using electrical currents to alleviate pain

Are there any precautions to consider when using pain medications? Patients with certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney or liver problems, or a history of stomach ulcers should consult their doctor before using over-the-counter pain relievers.

Recovery and Prognosis: The Typical Course of Costochondritis

Understanding the expected duration and long-term outlook of costochondritis can help patients manage their expectations and plan for recovery. While the condition is generally self-limiting, the recovery timeline can vary significantly among individuals.

How long does costochondritis typically last?

The duration of costochondritis can vary:

• Most cases resolve within a few weeks with proper care and treatment
• Some patients may experience symptoms persisting for several months
• Approximately one-third of patients may have symptoms lasting up to a year
• Recurrence is possible in some cases, even after initial recovery

Can costochondritis become a chronic condition? While rare, some individuals may develop chronic costochondritis, experiencing recurring episodes or persistent symptoms over an extended period. In such cases, working closely with a healthcare provider to develop a long-term management plan is crucial.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Adjustments for Costochondritis

While not all cases of costochondritis can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications and preventive strategies can help reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating the condition. Implementing these measures can contribute to overall chest health and potentially minimize the occurrence of costochondritis.

How can one reduce the risk of developing costochondritis?

Preventive measures for costochondritis include:

1. Proper posture: Maintaining good posture to reduce strain on the chest wall
2. Gradual exercise progression: Slowly increasing the intensity of chest exercises to avoid overexertion
3. Warm-up and stretching: Properly preparing the body before physical activities
4. Stress management: Reducing stress levels through relaxation techniques or mindfulness practices
5. Respiratory health: Managing respiratory conditions and avoiding prolonged periods of coughing

Is it possible to completely prevent costochondritis? While these measures can significantly reduce the risk, it’s not always possible to prevent costochondritis entirely, especially in cases related to underlying medical conditions or unavoidable factors.

Differentiating Costochondritis from Other Chest Pain Conditions

Given that chest pain can be a symptom of various conditions, some of which may be life-threatening, it’s crucial to accurately differentiate costochondritis from other potential causes. Understanding these distinctions can help individuals seek appropriate medical attention when necessary.

How does costochondritis differ from cardiac-related chest pain?

Key differences between costochondritis and cardiac chest pain include:

• Location: Costochondritis pain is typically localized and worsens with touch, while cardiac pain is often more diffuse
• Associated symptoms: Cardiac issues often come with additional symptoms like shortness of breath, nausea, or sweating
• Duration: Costochondritis pain can last for hours or days, while cardiac pain is often shorter in duration but may recur
• Triggers: Costochondritis pain often worsens with movement or pressure, while cardiac pain may be triggered by exertion or stress

When should one seek immediate medical attention for chest pain? Any sudden, severe chest pain, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or nausea, should be evaluated immediately to rule out serious cardiac conditions.

In conclusion, costochondritis, while often benign, can cause significant discomfort and concern for those experiencing it. By understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options, individuals can better manage this condition and distinguish it from more serious health issues. Always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of chest pain to ensure optimal health and peace of mind.

What Is Costochondritis?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on January 04, 2023

• What Is Costochondritis?
• Costochondritis Causes
• Costochondritis Symptoms
• Costochondritis Diagnosis
• Costochondritis Treatment
• How Long Does Costochondritis Last?
• More

Costochondritis is when the cartilage (connective tissue) that joins your ribs to your breastbone is inflamed. Doctors call this area of your body the costochondral joint.

If you press on your upper ribs and it feels tender, or if your chest hurts when you move around, you may have it. The pain can start suddenly or gradually. 

One study found that 30% of people complaining of chest pain had costochondritis. The condition affects both children and adults, but is more common in people 40 and over. It’s more likely to affect women and people of Hispanic origin.

Is costochondritis dangerous? This condition is mostly harmless. But if you have sudden chest pain, always have it checked out by a doctor to make sure your heart is healthy. Unlike costochondritis, a heart attack often causes widespread pain along with symptoms like sweating, nausea, and a hard time breathing.

Injury, physical strain, respiratory infection, rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, chest wall infections, tumors, or rare conditions like relapsing polychondritis may also cause chest pain.

There isn’t a single known cause of costochondritis. Doctors aren’t sure how your costochondral joint gets inflamed. But they do know that inflammation is one way your body responds to injury or infection. The condition has been linked to:

• Strain due to exercise or exertion 
• Chest injury
• Lots of coughing 
• Infection, such as respiratory infections 
• Intravenous (IV) drug use

When your costochondral joint becomes inflamed, it results in chest pain and tenderness. Most people describe the pain as sharp, achy, and pressure-like. When you press on your chest, it feels tender and painful. The pain usually gets worse when you move around, breathe deeply, or sneeze. Some people have pain when they wear a seatbelt, hug someone, or lie down. 

Costochondritis pain locations. You usually first feel pain on the front left side of your breastbone. It often affects more than one rib. It may spread to the rest of your chest, and even affect your arms and shoulders. 

Your doctor will do a physical exam, pressing on your chest to check for areas of tenderness. They will also take a look at your range of motion and listen to your breathing. 

If you’re over 35, at risk for coronary artery disease or a blood clot, or you recently had a respiratory infection, your doctor may order more tests, like a chest X-ray and EKG, to rule out more serious problems.

Since costochondritis isn’t dangerous, treatment focuses on pain relief. Most of the time, chest pain from costochondritis will go away on its own. In the meantime, you can try one or more of the following on your own:

• Taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen 2-3 times a day (making sure to follow the directions on the label carefully)
• Using hot compresses or heating pads in the painful area
• Avoiding activities, like strenuous exercise or reaching up, that make the pain worse

Talk to your doctor before taking OTC pain medications if you have:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Past stomach ulcers or internal bleeding.

If your chest pain won’t go away or gets worse, see your doctor. They can give you a shot of a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine called a corticosteroid to reduce pain and swelling. They’ll inject the corticosteroid into the area where you’re feeling pain. But because having too much of a corticosteroid can damage your costochondral joint, you can only have this treatment once every few months.  

Your doctor might also try a procedure called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS. A doctor or nurse puts adhesive patches on your skin near where you’re feeling pain. They use a TENS device to send a weak electrical current into your skin through the patches. It’s thought to work by stopping pain signals from reaching your brain.

Your doctor can also give you information on how to improve your posture and fix any muscle imbalances.

If necessary, they can refer you to a specialist called a rheumatologist, who treats diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones. 

Costochondritis isn’t a permanent condition. Most of the time, your chest pain will go away within a couple of weeks.

But in some cases, symptoms can linger for months. And sometimes it comes back again after it heals. About a third of those with costochondritis will have it for about a year. 

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What Is Costochondritis?

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Jennifer Robinson, MD on January 04, 2023

• What Is Costochondritis?
• Costochondritis Causes
• Costochondritis Symptoms
• Costochondritis Diagnosis
• Costochondritis Treatment
• How Long Does Costochondritis Last?
• More

Costochondritis is when the cartilage (connective tissue) that joins your ribs to your breastbone is inflamed. Doctors call this area of your body the costochondral joint.

If you press on your upper ribs and it feels tender, or if your chest hurts when you move around, you may have it. The pain can start suddenly or gradually. 

One study found that 30% of people complaining of chest pain had costochondritis. The condition affects both children and adults, but is more common in people 40 and over. It’s more likely to affect women and people of Hispanic origin.

Is costochondritis dangerous? This condition is mostly harmless. But if you have sudden chest pain, always have it checked out by a doctor to make sure your heart is healthy. Unlike costochondritis, a heart attack often causes widespread pain along with symptoms like sweating, nausea, and a hard time breathing.

Injury, physical strain, respiratory infection, rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, chest wall infections, tumors, or rare conditions like relapsing polychondritis may also cause chest pain.

There isn’t a single known cause of costochondritis. Doctors aren’t sure how your costochondral joint gets inflamed. But they do know that inflammation is one way your body responds to injury or infection. The condition has been linked to:

• Strain due to exercise or exertion 
• Chest injury
• Lots of coughing 
• Infection, such as respiratory infections 
• Intravenous (IV) drug use

When your costochondral joint becomes inflamed, it results in chest pain and tenderness. Most people describe the pain as sharp, achy, and pressure-like. When you press on your chest, it feels tender and painful. The pain usually gets worse when you move around, breathe deeply, or sneeze. Some people have pain when they wear a seatbelt, hug someone, or lie down. 

Costochondritis pain locations. You usually first feel pain on the front left side of your breastbone. It often affects more than one rib. It may spread to the rest of your chest, and even affect your arms and shoulders.  

Your doctor will do a physical exam, pressing on your chest to check for areas of tenderness. They will also take a look at your range of motion and listen to your breathing. 

If you’re over 35, at risk for coronary artery disease or a blood clot, or you recently had a respiratory infection, your doctor may order more tests, like a chest X-ray and EKG, to rule out more serious problems.

Since costochondritis isn’t dangerous, treatment focuses on pain relief. Most of the time, chest pain from costochondritis will go away on its own. In the meantime, you can try one or more of the following on your own:

• Taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like aspirin or ibuprofen 2-3 times a day (making sure to follow the directions on the label carefully)
• Using hot compresses or heating pads in the painful area
• Avoiding activities, like strenuous exercise or reaching up, that make the pain worse

Talk to your doctor before taking OTC pain medications if you have:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Past stomach ulcers or internal bleeding.

If your chest pain won’t go away or gets worse, see your doctor. They can give you a shot of a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine called a corticosteroid to reduce pain and swelling. They’ll inject the corticosteroid into the area where you’re feeling pain. But because having too much of a corticosteroid can damage your costochondral joint, you can only have this treatment once every few months. 

Your doctor might also try a procedure called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS. A doctor or nurse puts adhesive patches on your skin near where you’re feeling pain. They use a TENS device to send a weak electrical current into your skin through the patches. It’s thought to work by stopping pain signals from reaching your brain.

Your doctor can also give you information on how to improve your posture and fix any muscle imbalances.

If necessary, they can refer you to a specialist called a rheumatologist, who treats diseases of the joints, muscles, and bones.  

Costochondritis isn’t a permanent condition. Most of the time, your chest pain will go away within a couple of weeks.

But in some cases, symptoms can linger for months. And sometimes it comes back again after it heals. About a third of those with costochondritis will have it for about a year. 

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Why does the chest hurt if it is not cancer, and what to do with chest pains

Most of us associate any pain in the chest with a possible oncological disease. Statistics show that about 70% of women experience chest pain from time to time, but only 15% of cases require serious treatment. This does not mean that you do not need to see a doctor, but it is definitely not worth suspecting the worst thing when going to a mammologist.

Tags:

Women’s breasts

breast cancer

Pain

Unpleasant sensations in the chest can be different. One mammary gland or both can hurt, the attack is sharp, aching or barely perceptible. The malaise may be the only symptom that causes discomfort, or it may appear along with fever, redness, or other signs. We will tell you why women sometimes have chest pains and what consequences this can lead to.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Why can my chest hurt?

More than half of women experience occasional breast discomfort that causes anxiety. In medicine, this symptom is called mastalgia, and it is based on various reasons. If you understand why sometimes the chest hurts a lot, it is easier to exclude the possibility of a disease.

Hormonal changes

Statistics say that before or during menstruation, many women have chest pain, but they do not know why. Periodic or constant cyclic pains (mastodynia) are associated with menstruation, and we, if the sensations are tolerable, simply get used to them.

Similarly, for some reason, the chest hurts during pregnancy and during menopause. The mammary glands can swell, become very sensitive and hurt. From the point of view of specialists, such a change is usually not associated with any pathology, but is a consequence of hormonal changes occurring in the body. So, for example, up to 75% of cases of chest pain are associated precisely with menstruation and changes in the concentration of hormones that occur during it.

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Lactation also often causes pain. Nursing mothers note that they felt unpleasant symptoms, and then the chest suddenly for some reason stopped hurting. It was a reaction to the release of the hormone oxytocin. The muscle fibers of the milky passages were strongly contracted, milk was added, and a compressive or stabbing pain appeared.

In most cases, treatment during the period of hormonal changes is not required. It is enough to know why the chest hurts before, during or after menstruation. However, it is definitely worth observing your condition; if the nature of pain sensations changes, you definitely need to go to the doctor.

Cysts

In some cases, women report that for some reason they only have pain in their right or left breasts. Cysts can form in the mammary gland – cavities filled with fluid. These are benign formations that have a different size and shape – round, oval, irregular. Most often, breast cysts occur in women between the ages of 35 and 50, especially in those who are already entering menopause and not taking hormone replacement therapy.

There may be several or even many of them, they develop in one or both mammary glands at once. And women are not even aware of their existence and wonder why their chest hurts. It is very difficult to detect them with the help of self-examination. The cyst is groped when it becomes large enough. But more often, such formations turn out to be an unexpected finding on ultrasound.

In most cases, a cyst is not dangerous, but in very rare cases it can turn into a cancerous tumor. The mammologist should decide on the tactics of observation or removal of the cyst. Therefore, the doctor should ask questions why the chest suddenly began to hurt, although menstruation is not yet expected on the horizon.

Fibrotic changes

At the appointment, the patient may ask why her chest is swollen and sore, and at the same time it has ceased to be homogeneous to the touch. Pain in the mammary gland, as a rule, aching, pulling. Painful seals of various sizes may appear inside. This is due to the fact that, for various reasons, breast tissue is partially replaced by connective tissue, the structure of which is different. Such changes often occur in women between the ages of 30 and 50. But they are neither cancer precursors nor cancer-causing changes.

A popular recommendation for fibrous mastitis, as doctors call it, is to cut down on caffeine and use evening primrose oil. Once the causes of chest pain are identified, they can of course be used. But scientific data confirming the effectiveness of these funds is clearly not enough.

Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenomas are quite common in breast tissues. These are benign tumors that almost never turn into cancer. But they serve as an answer to the question why the chest hurts in a girl under the age of 18. The fact is that fibroadenomas occur more often in young women than in mature women. In children and adolescents, they rank second in terms of the frequency of detected tumors.

The doctor may suggest keeping the fibroadenomas and monitoring them, but surgery is also a possibility. Surgical removal with general anesthesia is usually performed when the lesions become quite large.

Medications

Certain medications can cause breast pain. For example, antidepressants and other drugs for the treatment of mental disorders, hormonal drugs (birth control pills), drugs prescribed to support heart and vascular health.

Mastitis

When a woman has prolonged stasis of milk in the ducts, it is no wonder why her breasts hurt for a week. Most likely, the mother developed mastitis – inflammation of the mammary gland. It can be lactational, that is, associated with breastfeeding, as well as non-lactational, which has arisen for other reasons.

With mastitis, an infection enters the body – through wounds or cracks on the nipple formed during feeding the child, or skin damage that has appeared due to sports, wearing underwear, and so on.

Pain during mastitis is very strong, shooting, and along with pain, weakness develops, the temperature rises, the mammary gland itself turns red and becomes hot. It is also the answer to the problem of why nipples hurt badly on the chest. Inflammation completely fetters one or both mammary glands. The appearance of mastitis is a reason for a quick visit to the doctor. While the inflammatory process has not yet gone too far, you can get by with a course of antibiotics. In more advanced cases, surgery is likely.

Wrong bra

The wrong bra can also cause serious discomfort and explain why the underbust area hurts. The cups of a too tight bra sometimes dig in and press hard, rubbing the delicate skin. If the bra is too loose and the chest is heavy, then it can also hurt – due to the lack of necessary support.

You can solve this problem by choosing and adjusting the bra that suits you.

What to do if your chest hurts

When the causes of pain in the mammary glands are clear, you should move on to solving the problem. Here is a list of the most standard and universal recommendations for discomfort:

• regularly visit a mammologist so as not to miss something really important;
• watch your weight – extra pounds can make an already large breast heavier;
• cut down on caffeine and chocolate;
• take B vitamins and vitamin E;
• Express properly without allowing milk to stagnate when breastfeeding;
• Eat properly and in a balanced way.

How to relieve chest pain

If you know why your chest hurts, it is important to get the factors that contribute to this condition under control. First of all, when unpleasant sensations arise, you need to ensure peace for yourself, wait a little with physical activity. During the period of hormonal surges, one should rest more, normalize sleep, give up alcohol and smoking, be outdoors, walk.

To avoid soreness in the chest, wear comfortable underwear made from natural fabrics. With cyclic pain, the doctor will help you choose oral contraceptives or adjust the dosage of those that you are already taking. You can also take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine to make you feel better, after consulting with a specialist. Also try not to get nervous over trifles and keep your weight normal.

Also try not to get nervous over trifles and keep your weight normal. In order not to wonder why your chest suddenly started to hurt, try to control your salt intake, especially in the second phase of the cycle. And a week before your period, do not drink a lot of strong tea and coffee. If the sensations continue to disturb and become stronger from time to time, you should take a general blood test, examine it for hormone levels, do an ultrasound of the pelvic organs, mammary glands and mammography.

Photo: Shutterstock

Breast Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Content

• 1 Breast Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
  • 1.1 Symptoms and Diagnosis
    • 1.1.1 Symptoms
    • 1.1.2 Diagnosis
  • 1.2 Causes of breast pain
  • 1.3 Mastopathy: causes, symptoms, treatment
    • 1.3.1 What is mastopathy?
    • 1.3.2 Causes of mastopathy
    • 1.3.3 Symptoms of mastopathy
    • 1.3.4 Treatment of mastopathy
  • 1.4 Mastitis – causes and symptoms
    • 1.4.1 What is mastitis?
    • 1.4.2 Symptoms of mastitis
    • 1.4.3 Treatment of mastitis
  • 1. 5 Injury to the breast
    • 1.5.1 What is it?
    • 1.5.2 Symptoms
    • 1.5.3 Treatment
  • 1.6 Thyroid disorders
    • 1.6.1 Hyperthyroidism
    • 1.6.2 Hypothyroidism
    • 1.6.3 Thyroid diffuse toxic goiter
  • 1.7 Malignant tumors of the breast
    • 1.7.1 What is it?
    • 1.7.2 How does a tumor develop?
    • 1.7.3 What symptoms indicate the presence of a tumor?
    • 1.7.4 How to diagnose a tumor?
    • 1.7.5 How to treat a tumor?
  • 1.8 Treatment of breast pain
    • 1.8.1 Combination treatment
    • 1.8.2 Use of anti-inflammatory drugs
    • 1.8.3 Lifestyle changes
    • 1.8.4 Importance of consulting a specialist
  • Linen or rice wrapping
  • 1.9.3 Herbal teas
• 1.10 Prevention of breast pain
  • 1.10.1 Breast massage
  • 1.10.2 Wearing a bra regularly
  • 1.10.3 Proper nutrition
  • 1. 10.4 Regular check-ups
• 1.11 Question-answer:
  • • 1.11.0.1 What could be the causes of breast pain?
    • 1.11.0.2 Can heart disease cause breast pain?
    • 1.11.0.3 Can thyroid problems cause breast pain?
    • 1.11.0.4 What does it mean if both breasts hurt?
    • 1.11.0.5 How to perform breast self-palpation correctly?
    • 1.11.0.6 What treatments can help with breast pain?
• 1.12 Related videos:

Breast pain – causes, symptoms and treatment. On the site you will find useful information on how to understand when to see a doctor and what methods will help to cope with the disease.

The mammary gland is an important organ of the female body that performs the function of producing and excreting breast milk. However, women often face the problem of breast pain, which can be a symptom of various diseases.

The main cause of pain in the mammary gland is the hormonal background of a woman. It can appear during menstruation, pregnancy, lactation and in other cases when the level of hormones changes. Pain can also be caused by tumors, cysts and other diseases of the breast.

There are many ways to treat breast pain, depending on the cause. In some cases, the use of drugs is sufficient, in others massage, compresses and gymnastics can help. However, in more complex cases, surgery may be required.

It is important not to ignore breast pain, as many diseases are easier to treat at an early stage. When pain occurs, you should consult a doctor who will help determine the cause and prescribe the correct treatment.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Symptoms

Pain in the breast may present with the following symptoms:

• soreness of the gland, often worse before or during menstruation;
• swelling or redness of the gland;
• discomfort, tightness or heaviness in the gland;
• discharge from the nipple of milky fluid or blood;
• change in the shape or size of the gland.

Yes

66.67%

No

33.33%

Diagnosis

The following methods can be used to diagnose the cause of breast pain:

902 92

In some cases, a biopsy may be required – taking a small sample of breast tissue for further examination.

Causes of breast pain

Breast pain can be due to many causes, including:

• Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the breast that can lead to painful swelling and redness of the breast skin. The cause is milk stagnation and bacterial infection.
• A breast cyst is a small fluid-filled sac that can cause discomfort or pain in the breast. Cysts are usually benign, but sometimes they can be malignant.
• Chest injury – breast pain may occur after a blow or other type of chest injury.
• Hormonal changes – During menstruation, pregnancy, lactation, or menopause, hormone levels in the body can change and cause breast tenderness.
• Cancer – breast pain may be associated with breast cancer or breast yeast. If the pain is severe or prolonged, you should consult a doctor.

Mastopathy: causes, symptoms, treatment

What is mastopathy?

Mastopathy is a disease of the breast, which is characterized by changes in the tissue of the gland and can lead to pain, discomfort and other problems.

Causes of mastopathy

The main causes of mastopathy are hormonal changes in the body, which can be caused by various factors, such as late childbirth, abortion, hormonal imbalance and others.

Symptoms of mastopathy

• Soreness or discomfort in the breast;
• Increased size and density of the breast;
• Discharge from chest;
• Redness of the skin in the chest area;
• Sensation of induration in the mammary gland.

The presence of these symptoms does not always indicate mastopathy, but in any case, if they occur, you should consult a doctor.

Treatment of mastopathy

Treatment of mastopathy depends on its form and severity. In some cases, conservative treatment may be used, including medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes and nutrition. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.

In any case, the most important thing is to see a doctor in time when symptoms appear in order to avoid complications and consequences of the disease.

Mastitis – causes and symptoms

What is mastitis?

Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the breast that most often occurs in women during breastfeeding. One of the reasons for the development of mastitis is the stagnation of milk in the mammary gland, which contributes to the growth of bacteria and infection. Also, mastitis can occur as a result of an injury to the mammary gland or some other factor that disrupts the normal functioning of the body.

Symptoms of mastitis

The main symptom of mastitis is pain in the mammary gland, which can be very intense, accompanied by reddening of the skin and fever. Pain can occur in one breast or both. Sensations extend to the armpits, there may be sensations of burning and tingling.

In addition, mastitis is accompanied by headache, general weakness and increased body fatigue. Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpits can be determined by palpation. Mastitis can last for several days, and in some cases, without treatment, it can last for several weeks or even months.

Treatment of mastitis

Treatment of mastitis should only be prescribed by a doctor, based on the degree of development of the disease, its causes and symptoms. The main approach to treatment is to eliminate the causes that led to the stagnation of milk, to make sure that the baby is properly attached to the breast.

Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory and pain medications are prescribed. It is necessary to ensure proper breast hygiene, exercise regularly, and refrain from prolonged use of a hard bra.

In severe cases, surgery may be required. With timely seeking medical help, the prognosis for remission of the disease is very high.

Breast injury

What is it?

Injuries to the breast can result from a variety of actions on the chest, including impact, falls, and pressure. Also, some sports, such as hockey or boxing, can lead to breast injuries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a breast injury can range from mild pain and tightness to severe pain and bleeding. The bruised gland may be swollen and sensitive to touch, and sometimes there may even be bruising of the skin. If the symptoms do not disappear within a few days, you should consult a doctor.

Treatment

Treatment of a breast injury depends on the specific injury. For minor injuries, the usual application of cold to the injury site may suffice. More severe bruises may require pain medication and medical supervision. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately.

Thyroid disorders

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is a condition that occurs when there is an excess of thyroid hormones. This usually causes symptoms such as an increased heart rate, nervousness, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat. Treatment may include medication or thyroid surgery.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when there is a lack of thyroid hormones. This can lead to loss of energy, fatigue and muscle weakness. Weight gain and decreased mood may also occur. Treatment may include taking medications such as levothyroxine or using thyroid replacement therapy.

Toxic thyroid goiter

Toxic thyroid goiter is a disease in which the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. This can lead to various symptoms, including increased body temperature, sweating, and palpitations. Treatment may include medication or thyroid surgery.

• Hyperthyroidism
• Hypothyroidism
• Thyroid diffuse toxic goiter

Malignant tumors of the breast

What is it?

Breast cancers are malignant growths that start in the tissues of the breast and can lead to breast cancer.

How does a tumor develop?

A malignant tumor of the mammary gland develops from mammary gland cells. These cells begin to divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor. The tumor can be localized only in the mammary gland or spread to nearby tissues and organs.

What symptoms indicate the presence of a tumor? How to diagnose a tumor ?

Various methods are used to diagnose breast cancer, including mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy. Mammography and ultrasound can detect changes in the tissues of the breast, and a biopsy can determine whether the tumor is malignant.

How to treat a tumor?

Breast cancer treatment depends on many factors, including tumor stage, size, spread, and presence of metastases. Typically, treatment includes surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy. It is recommended to undergo regular examinations for early detection of possible relapses.

Treatment of breast pain

Comprehensive treatment

Pain in the breast can be caused by various causes, so the treatment should be complex. This may include taking medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, but also pay attention to lifestyle changes and appropriate exercise.

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Anti-inflammatory drugs can help relieve breast pain. They can be taken both in the form of tablets and in the form of ointments. The drugs can be different and require the exact prescription of a doctor, taking into account the characteristics of each specific case.

Lifestyle changes

Changing your lifestyle so that you can get rid of pain can be difficult, but it is necessary to try to achieve treatment. One of the steps can be an increase in physical activity, a healthy diet and the elimination of stressful situations.

The importance of consulting a specialist

Remember that if you have breast pain, you need to see a doctor to determine the cause and pave the way for treatment. Self-diagnosis can be dangerous and lead to additional problems. Take care of your health and trust it to professionals.

Folk remedies for breast pain

Warm compresses

For breast pain, you can make a warm compress of vegetable oil with the addition of red pepper or mustard. To do this, mix 2 tablespoons of oil and a pinch of hot seasoning, apply to the mammary gland and leave for 20-30 minutes. You can also use tincture of plantain leaves or nettle.

Flax or rice wrap

Flaxseed or rice grains can be used to wrap breasts with painful areas. The grain must be heated in a pan to a temperature of 50 degrees, then wrapped in a reusable cloth and applied to the diseased mammary gland. Such a compress helps relieve spasm and improve blood circulation.

Herbal decoctions

In folk medicine, herbal decoctions are used to relieve pain in the mammary gland. Well-known herbs are calendula, chamomile and nettle. To prepare a decoction, you need to take 2 tablespoons of dry herbs, pour 500 ml of boiling water and insist in a thermos for 2-3 hours. The drink should be drunk in a glass 2-3 times a day.

• Important: If the pain in the breast does not go away, you need to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
• Folk remedies cannot replace professional medical care.

Prevention of breast pain

Breast massage

Massage is necessary to prevent breast diseases. Taking a few minutes every day will strengthen the muscles around the glands, improve circulation, and help prevent milk stasis. Gentle circular motions can be done while showering or before bed. Starting from the bottom, move up, gently feeling the glands.

Wearing a bra regularly

Wearing a bra promotes proper positioning and support of the breasts. Avoid bras that are too tight around the breasts, as this can cause milk stasis and pain. But also don’t wear too loose bras that don’t provide the support you need.

Proper nutrition

Proper nutrition plays an important role in maintaining breast health. Try including more vegetables and fruits in your diet that are rich in phytonutrients that help fight inflammation. You should also avoid excessive consumption of fatty, salty and sweet foods, which can negatively affect the condition of the mammary glands.

Regular examinations

Have regular examinations with a gynecologist or mammologist. Screening is recommended once a year for women over the age of 40, and once every two years for those younger. If you have a specific breast problem, such as a high risk of cancer, you may be scheduled for a personalized exam schedule.

Q&A:

What could be the causes of breast pain?

Breast pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes in the body, trauma, infections, and tumors. Some women experience pain before menstruation due to changes in hormone levels, which can lead to breast swelling. Also, chest pains can be associated with an incorrectly chosen bra, for example, if it fits the chest too tightly and creates discomfort.

Can heart disease cause breast pain?

Chest pain may be a symptom of heart disease, but it is not usually related specifically to the breast. If you have any bothersome symptoms related to your chest, including pain, pressure, pounding or fast heartbeat, or if these symptoms occur during or after physical activity, be sure to see your doctor.

Can thyroid problems cause breast pain?

Thyroid dysfunction can lead to various symptoms, but breast tenderness is not usually associated with this problem. However, if you are experiencing chest pains and symptoms of thyroid dysfunction such as fatigue, dry hair and skin, changes in appetite, mood swings, etc., it is worth visiting an endocrinologist.

What does it mean if both mammary glands hurt?

Pain in both breasts may be due to hormonal changes in the body, such as before menstruation or during pregnancy. Also, breast disease can be hereditary and be inherited. In any case, if you experience pain in both breasts, it is better to consult a doctor for diagnosis and finding out the causes of pain.

How to perform breast self-palpation correctly?

For self-determination in mammology, it is customary to do this on certain days of the cycle. It is recommended to view the mammary glands on a certain day of the menstrual cycle every month – this allows you to notice any changes in the breast as accurately and quickly as possible. If you notice a lump, bump, or any unusual swelling, contact your mammologist immediately.

What treatments can help with breast pain?

Treatment of breast disease depends on its cause. If the soreness is due to hormonal changes, then treatment may include taking hormones or using certain medications that can help reduce breast swelling. If the pain is caused by mechanical causes, such as an incorrectly chosen bra, then changing underwear can also help.